A judge who has been honoured for creating a marae-based youth court says they've helped entire communities, not just young people.

Gisborne's Judge Heemi Taumaunu has been given the Veillard-Cybulski Award for his work with children and families in difficulty.

He led the development of the Rangatahi Court, which gives young Maori a cultural grounding - helping them change their behaviour and realise their potential.

Judge Taumaunu says they engage families too, and people throughout the community.

"By involving all of those different levels of engagement, there is increased or enhanced respect for the rule of law within that secular community and that is actually one of the most important goals of Rangatahi Court - it's not just about the young people involved," he said.

Judge Taumaunu said the Swiss award came out of the blue.

"When I learned that I won the award, that was the first time I heard that I'd been nominated for it so it was a pleasant surprise."

He was nominated by former Principal Youth Court Judge Andrew Becroft.